CNN Student News Learning Activity: Species Loss

(CNN Student News) -- Students will learn about species loss and the role that humans might play in a possible mass extinction.

Share and discuss the following quote with your class:

"Many biologists believe the earth is in the midst of the sixth great spasm of extinction. The first five were naturally occurring (ice age, meteors, etc.), but this one's man-made. The pressure humans are putting on plants and animals is enormous. From deforestation to habitat encroachment to pollution, it's all adding up to rates of extinction that are profound. American Scientist Magazine recently estimated that three species are lost per hour -- that's 72 species a day, 26,280 per year. " -- Charlie Moore, CNN Senior Producer of "Planet in Peril"

Related Resources

After the discussion, challenge students to consider the role of biodiversity in the "web of life." Organize the class into small groups. Direct each group to the resources listed, including the CNN Student News video on species loss, to learn more about the possible current mass extinction, the likely causes of this extinction and its potential impact on human life.

Assign each group to use its information to diagram the chain of events that could lead to and result from a mass extinction. As part of their diagram, groups should select one endangered plant or animal, identify why that species is endangered and demonstrate how the extinction of the species could impact its ecosystem. Then, have each group present its diagram.

Don't Miss

Following the presentations, ask students: How might the loss of multiple species ultimately affect human life on the planet. Wrap up the activity by having students make a list of suggestions of actions that might be taken to prevent a possible mass extinction.